Athletic devices and other devices with superealstic components

ABSTRACT

Devices may contain superelastic components that are capable of producing a spring force in response to a deflection. A component for a motorized vehicle can include a deflectable wing formed of a superelastic material, wherein at least a portion of the deflectable wing is moved to a deflected position upon application of a threshold force when traveling at or above a predetermined speed, and returning to an undeflected position when traveling below the predetermined speed. The deflector may comprise a connection link fabricated from a superelastic material to tailor its flex point characteristics to a desired response in order to maintain the aerodynamic stability of the deflector when exposed to changing external forces. The superelastic components may improve the performance of such devices by improving aerodynamic properties.

CROSS-REFERENCE

This application is a continuation application of Ser. No. 11/160,850,filed on Jul. 12, 2005, which is a continuation application of Ser. No.10/050,944, filed on Jan. 22, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,916,035, whichclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/263,418, filedJan. 23, 2001, which all are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Current techniques for providing components for athletic or otherdevices involve using a relatively elastic, semi rigid material that ispositioned at the flex points and limits the degree of bending of thedevice. These current components interfere with optimal recoil of thedevice about the flex points in response to an opposing deflection. Inaddition, these current components are limited in their ability toprevent plastic deformation upon frequent or significant rotation,bending or other motion unless they are fabricated extremely thick;however, when fabricated thick they further hinder the desired movementof the device about the flex point. Another conventional componentconfiguration incorporates wood, Kevlar, stainless steel, carbon, carbonfiber, aluminum, fiberglass, other laminates, graphite, or other solidmetal or alloy component incorporated in the device to include a pivotthat enables movement of the component about the flex point or points.These current components severely limit the available flexion of thedevice thus, depending upon the application, may adversely impact theperformance. As such they greatly inhibit the desired rotation, bending,or other motion. A need thus exists for superelastic componentsincorporated in various devices that are capable of being deflected apredetermined amount in response to an external force and exert anopposing force in response to the deflection. As such, thesesuperelastic components preserve or enhance the response of the deviceto any flexion and permit frequent and dramatic twisting, bending, orother motion which typically would cause deformation or failure ofconventional devices that do not utilize superelastic components.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one general aspect, a racket includes a handle section, a headsection, and a connecting section positioned between the handle sectionand the head section. One or more of the handle section, the headsection, and the connecting section include a superelastic metal.

Implementations and embodiments of the racket may include one or more ofthe following features. For example, the superelastic metal may be atleast partially surrounded by a second material. The superelastic metalmay include a wire mounted to the head section of the racket to form anenclosed opening through which a racket string passes. The head sectionof the racket may include one or more interior channels through whichthe wire passes.

The head section may include the superelastic component around at leasta portion of the circumference of the racket. The superelastic componentmay have a tubular cross-sectional profile.

The connecting section may include a bifurcation having two armsconnected to the head section, and at least one of the arms may includea superelastic component.

The racket may further include a superelastic dampener. The connectingsection may include a bifurcation having two arms connecting to the headsection and forming an opening between the two arm and the dampener maybe connected to the two arms and pass between the two arms.

The handle section may include the superelastic component. Thesuperelastic component may be in the form of a longitudinal componentextending generally colinearly with the handle section. The superelasticcomponent also may be in the form of a circumferential componentextending around the circumference of the handle section. Thesuperelastic circumferential component may be the entirety of at least aportion of the length of the handle section.

In another general aspect, a set of ski components may include at leastone ski that includes a superelastic component that is configured andpositioned with respect to the ski to provide an elastic response of theski to a deflection.

Implementation and embodiments of the set of ski components may includeone or more of the following features. For example the set may furtherinclude a ski pole that includes a handle, a rod, a spike, and a ring.One or more of the handle, the rod, the spike, and the ring includes asuperelastic component and the superelastic component is configured andpositioned to provide an elastic response of the ski pole to adeflection. The rod may include an upper member and a lower member andan angled connecting member positioned between the upper member and thelower member. The angled connecting member includes a superelastic metalthat is configured to elastically flex when one or both of the uppermember and the lower member are deflected.

The superelastic component may be positioned as a bottom surface of theski and the bottom surface of the ski may be configured to be in contactwith a ski surface. The superelastic component may have a curvaturebetween opposite outside edges and/or the superelastic component mayhave a flat surface between opposite outside edges. The superelasticcomponent may be removably mounted to the ski.

The may be positioned at least partially within the ski. Thesuperelastic component may include at least two parallel members. Thesuperelastic component may include multiple members that extendcollinearly along at least a portion of the length of the ski.

In one aspect, this application relates to athletic devices, such asrackets and ski equipment, and components incorporated in athleticdevices for enhancing the performance of the athletic activity and otherdevices that undergo flexion during use. In another aspects thisapplication relates to athletic devices, such as rackets and skiequipment, that incorporate features to better enable them to withstandflexing and provide a dynamic response to such flexion. In addition, inyet another aspect, the this application relates to components that areincorporated in various devices, such as rackets and ski equipment, thatpermit frequent flexing of the component without permanently deformingand provide the desired radial stiffness, torsional rigidity, axialstiffness, and recoil or spring force. As such, the device is reinforcedby tailoring the stress, strain, and torque characteristics to theapplication. The superelastic components also preserve the flexibilityof the device and/or intensify the spring force exerted upon deflection.In particular, the superelastic components provide a directional forcein response to an opposing deflection.

The superelastic components are intended to reinforce, strengthen,and/or enhance the performance of various athletic devices and otherdevices. The superelastic components improve the performance of athleticdevices and other devices by increasing the contact duration between theactive element of the device and objects the devices are configured toexert force. For example, rackets, swim fins, baseball bats, hockeysticks, golf clubs, skis, snowboards, surfboards, razors, andtoothbrushes incorporate superelastic components to produce greatercontrol of force exerted upon objects without a reduction in power. Inaddition, rolling or sliding devices such as bicycles, automobiles,rollerblades, skateboards, skates, or other devices may incorporatesuperelastic components to increase the duration of contact between thewheels or blades and the ground or other surface or aerodynamiccomponents.

The superelastic components also provide increased resistance tobreakage or plastic deformation of the athletic device or other devices,especially when exposed to frequent deflections. For example, theresistance to failure, resulting from fatigue or excess deflection, forrackets, archery bows, swim fins, skis, ski poles, snowboards,surfboards, vaulting poles, golf clubs, golf balls, hockey sticks, boatoars, canoe paddles, fishing poles, boat masts, automobile suspensioncomponents, aerodynamic components, bicycle shocks, bicycle frame,bicycle spokes, rollerblade shocks, skateboard parts, snowshoes,backpack frame, tent frame, kite frame, or other components which areexposed to frequent and extreme deflections is dramatically improvedwhen using superelastic components.

Superelastic components are able to decrease the weight of the athleticdevice or other component without sacrificing strength. For example,rackets, golf clubs, baseball bats, boat masts, automobile suspensioncomponents, aerodynamic components, bicycle frames, snowboards,skateboards, skis, ski bindings, snowboard bindings, backpack frame,kite frame, or other device may be fabricated lighter by leveraging theability to decrease wall thickness or other dimensions of thesuperelastic components without a reduction in tensile strength.

The superelastic components also enable applying a specific force at aflex point of the device to enhance the recoil resulting from a desireddeflection. For example, rackets, swim fins, baseball bats, boat oars,hockey sticks, golf clubs, golf balls, other balls, vaulting poles,javelin poles, boat mast, automobile suspension components, aerodynamiccomponents, archery bow, canoe paddles, fishing pole, or other devicesare deflected by an object and rely on elastic recoil to transferpotential energy, induced from a deflection of the superelasticcomponent, to the object thereby propelling the object in apredetermined direction. Different components having different forcecharacteristics and/or enabling different degrees of movement may beused in various devices to distribute the spring force throughout thedevice.

The above described features and many further features and advantages ofthe present inventions will be elaborated in the following detaileddescription, the accompanying drawings, and the claims.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in thisspecification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent asif each individual publication, patent, or patent application wasspecifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity inthe appended claims. A better understanding of the features andadvantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to thefollowing detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments,in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and theaccompanying drawings of which:

FIG. 1 a is a perspective view of a racket containing superelasticcomponents.

FIGS. 1 b and 1 c are cross-sectional views and side-sectional views,respectively of racket frame of FIG. 1 a incorporating a superelasticcomponent mechanism for attaching the strings to the frame.

FIG. 1 d is a side view of a section of a racket string of the racket ofFIG. 1 a incorporating a superelastic component central element.

FIG. 1 e is a front view of the handle of the racket of FIG. 1 a with asuperelastic handle section.

FIG. 1 f is a cross-sectional view of the head of the racket of FIG. 1 awith a superelastic head section.

FIGS. 2 a and 2 b are a top view and a side view, respectively, of aswim fin that contains superelastic components.

FIGS. 3 a and 3 b are a top view and a side view, respectively, of a skithat contains superelastic components.

FIGS. 3 c and 3 d are a top view and a side view, respectively, of asnowboard, skateboard, or surfboard that contain superelasticcomponents.

FIGS. 3 e and 3 f are cross-sectional views of skis, snowboards,skateboards, or surfboards that contain superelastic components.

FIGS. 3 g-3 o are various view of skis having superelastic guides andrunners to assist in turning and maneuvering.

FIG. 3 p is a front view of a ski pole using superelastic components.

FIGS. 3 q and 3 r are cross-sectional views of the rod section of theski pole of FIG. 3 p.

FIG. 3 s is a front view of an angled ski pole using superelasticcomponents.

FIGS. 4 a and 4 b are a side view and a bottom view, respectively, of atoothbrush that contains superelastic components.

FIGS. 5 a and 5 b are a bottom view and a side view, respectively, of arazor that contains superelastic components.

FIG. 6 a is a side view of an archery bow that contains superelasticcomponents.

FIGS. 6 b and 6 c are cross-sectional views of the archery bow frame andarchery bow string in FIG. 6 a.

FIG. 7 a is a side-sectional view of a boat oar that containssuperelastic components.

FIG. 7 b is a side-sectional view of a baseball bat that containssuperelastic components.

FIG. 7 c is a side-sectional view of a hockey stick that containssuperelastic components.

FIG. 8 a is a side view of a golf club that contains superelasticcomponents.

FIG. 8 b shows a cross-sectional view of the club head of the golf clubin FIG. 8 a;

FIGS. 8 c and 8 d are cross-sectional views of the shaft of the golfclub in FIG. 8 a.

FIGS. 8 e to 8 g are side views of the golf club shaft of FIG. 8 a takenalong section line C—C.

FIGS. 9 a and 9 b are a top view and a side view, respectively, of anautomobile that contains superelastic components.

FIGS. 10 a, 10 b, 10 c, and 10 d is a side view of a bicycle thatcontains superelastic components.

FIG. 11 is a side view of a roller blade, a roller skate, or an iceskate that contains superelastic components.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a backpack that contains superelasticcomponents.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

There is a basic terminology that is used to describe metals withelastic, superelastic, or shape-memory behavior. Elasticity is theability of the metal, under a bending load, for example, to deflect(strain) and not take a permanent “set” when the load (stress) isremoved. Common elastic metals can strain to about two percent beforethey set. Superelastic metals are unique in that they can withstand upto about ten percent strain before taking a set. This is attributed to a“stress-induced” phase change within the metal to allow it to withstandsuch dramatic levels of strain. Depending on the composition of themetal, this temperature that allows such a phase change can vary. And,if the metal is “set” at one temperature, and then the temperature ischanged, the metal can return to an “unset” shape. Then, upon returningto the previous “set” temperature, the shape changes back. This is a“shape-memory” effect due to the change in temperature changing thephase within the metal. As described below, there are different metalbehaviors and these can vary with the composition of variousshape-memory alloys.

Elasticity.

When a metal is loaded (stressed) and undergoes, for example, bending,it may deflect (strain) in a “springy” fashion and tend to return to itsoriginal shape when the load is removed, or it may tend to “set” andstay in a bent condition. This ability to return to the original shapeis a measure of the elasticity or “resilience” of the metal. Thisability for a metal to be resilient is desirable for such things assprings, shock absorbing devices, and even wire for orthodontic braces,where the ability to deflect, but not deform (set) is important tomaintain an applied force.

Plasticity.

If, under a bending load, the metal takes a set, it is said to haveplastically (versus elastically) deformed. This is because the imposedstress, produced by the bending load, has exceeded the “yield strength”(stress) of the metal. Technically, this level of stress that produces aset, is referred to as the “elastic limit”, but is about the same as theyield strength. If the applied load increases past the yield strength ofthe metal, it will produce more plasticity and can eventually break. Thehigher the yield strength of the metal, the more elastic it is. “Good”elastic metals can accommodate up to about two percent strain prior totaking a set. But this is not the only factor governing “elasticity”.

Modulus.

Another factor that determines the ability of a metal to deflect to agiven, desired amount, but not take a set, is the “elastic modulus”, oroften called the modulus of elasticity. The “modulus” of the metal is aninherent property. Steels, for example, have a relatively high modulus(30 msi) while the more flexible aluminum has a lower modulus of about10 msi. The modulus for titanium alloys is generally between 12 and 15msi.

Resilience.

Resilience is the overall measure of elasticity or “spring-back ability”of a metal. The ratio of the yield strength divided by the modulus ofthe metal is the resilience. Although it is one thing for a metal to beresilient, it must also have sufficient strength for the intendedservice conditions.

Superelastic Metals.

As discussed above, when a metal is loaded, each increment of load(stress) produces a given increment of deflection (strain) within themetal. And the metal remains elastic if the applied load is below theyield stress. However, there is a unique class of metal alloys thatbehave in an even more elastic manner. These are the “superelastic”metals, for which, for a given applied stress (load) increment, thestrain in the metal can reach 5 or 6 percent or more without taking aset. In this type of metals, the overall strain required to produce aset can reach an impressive 10 percent. This phenomenon is related to aphase change within the metal, and which is induced by the appliedstress. This “stress-induced” phase change also can be used to set themetal to a shape at one temperature and return to another shape atanother temperature. This is the “shape-memory” effect, discussed below.

The most common superelastic metal, which is used in many commercialapplications, is an alloy comprised of about equal parts of nickel (Ni)and titanium (Ti), and has a trade name of “Nitinol”. It is alsoreferred to as “NiTi”. By slightly varying the ratios of the nickel andtitanium in Nitinol, the stability of the internal phases in the metalcan be changed. Basically, there are two phases: (1) an “austenite”phase and (2) a lower-temperature, “martensite” phase. When the metal isin an austenitic phase condition, and is stressed, a stress-inducedmartensite forms, resulting in the superelasticity.

It is preferred that the Nickel to Titanium ratio in the Nitinol beselected so that the stress-induced martensite forms at ambienttemperatures for the case of superelastic braces and other supportdevices, which are used in ambient conditions. The specific compositioncan be selected to result in the desired temperature for the formationof the martensite phase (Ms) and the lower temperature (Mf) at whichthis transformation finishes. Both the Ms and Mf temperatures are belowthe temperature at which the austenite phase is stable.

Shape Memory.

By manipulating the composition of Nitinol, a variety of stress-inducedsuperelastic properties can result, and over a desired, predeterminedservice temperature range. This allows the metal to behave in a“shape-memory” fashion. In this regard, the metal is “set” to apredetermined, desired shape at one temperature when in a martensiticcondition, and returns to the original shape when the temperaturereturns to the austenitic temperature. Then, upon returning to themartensitic temperature, the shape of the set condition returns. Nitinolis often referred to as a shape-memory alloy.

Other Superelastic Metals.

Although the example of Nitinol, discussed above, is, by far, the mostpopular of the superelastic metals, there are other alloys that can alsoexhibit superelastic or shape-memory behavior. These include:

Copper—40 at % Zinc

Copper—14 wt % Aluminum—4 wt % Nickel

Iron—32 wt % Manganese—6 wt % Silicon

Gold—5 to 50 at % Cadmium

Nickel—36 to 38 at % Aluminum

Iron—25 at % Platinum

Titanium—40 at % Nickel—10 at % Copper

Manganese—5 to 35 at % Copper

Titanium—49 to 51 at % Nickel (Nitinol)

The corrosion resistance of Nitinol is superior to that of commonly used3161 stainless steel, and, if surface oxidized or passivated carefully,can reach corrosion resistance comparable to the most popular titaniumimplant alloy, Ti6Al4V.

This specification discloses a number of embodiments, mainly in thecontext of reinforcement and performance enhancement for athleticdevices and other devices. Nevertheless, it should be appreciated thatthe embodiments are applicable for use in other indications involvingdevices that contain structures that flex, restrict motion to a desiredpath, and/or exert a desired force in response to an externally induceddeflection. The embodiments described herein are configured for specificdevices; however, it should be noted that the embodiments may betailored to other devices not specifically discussed by changing thegeometry and sizes of the structures.

The embodiments described herein provide four primary benefits toathletic devices and other devices. The superelastic components improvethe performance of athletic devices and other devices by increasing thecontact duration between the active element of the device and objectsthe devices are configured to exert force. The superelastic componentsalso provide increased resistance to breakage or plastic deformation ofthe athletic device or other devices, especially when exposed tofrequent deflections. Superelastic components are able to decrease theweight of the athletic device or other component without sacrificingstrength. The superelastic components also enable applying a specificforce at a flex point of the device to enhance the elastic recoilresulting from a desired deflection. It should be noted that otherbenefits may arise from the use of superelastic components in athleticdevices and other components.

The embodiments described herein include athletic devices, andcomponents in athletic devices, that are fabricated from superelastic(or pseudoelastic) shape memory alloys. These superelastic componentselastically deform upon exposure to an external force and return towardstheir preformed shape upon reduction or removal of the external force.The superelastic components may exhibit stress-induced martensitecharacteristics in that they transform from the preshaped austenite formto the more soft and ductile martensite form upon application of stressand transform back toward the stronger and harder austenite form oncethe stress is released or reduced; this depends on the composition ofthe superelastic shape memory alloys which affects the temperaturetransition profile. Superelastic shape memory alloys also enablestraining the material numerous times without plastically deforming thematerial. Superelastic shape memory alloys are light in weight, andexhibit excellent tensile strengths such that they may be used inathletic equipment, personnel items, or other devices withoutdramatically increasing the weight of the device, or making the devicethick or bulky. The utility of superelastic materials in components forathletic or other devices is highlighted by the inherent properties ofsuch materials; they are able to withstand continuous and frequentdeflections without plastically deforming or observing fatigue failures.

These components may also be elastically deflected into small radii ofcurvatures and return towards their preformed configuration once theexternal force causing the deflection is removed or reduced. Many otherknown metals, alloys, and polymers plastically deform or fail whendeflected into similar radii of curvature or exposed to comparablestrains; as such these other metals, alloys, and polymers do not returntowards their original configuration when exposed to the amount ofdeflection components are expected to endure. Therefore superelasticcomponents may inherently incorporate flex regions, which conventionalathletic devices and other devices are unable to accommodate, therebyeliminating the need for two or more components being connected througha hinge structure that requires pivot points between the two or morecomponents. Thus the complexity and cost of athletic devices and otherdevices that incorporate superelastic components is significantlyreduced when compared to conventional devices. In addition, superelasticcomponents permit deflections into smaller radii of curvature than othermetals, alloys, and polymers resulting in larger strains, and they arecapable of exerting substantial force when deflected, ensuring thesuperelastic components return towards their preformed shape after beingelastically deformed.

Superelastic components may be fabricated from shape memory alloys(e.g., nickel titanium) demonstrating stress-induced martensite atambient temperature. Of course, other shape memory alloys may be usedand the superelastic material may alternatively exhibit austeniteproperties at ambient temperature. The composition of the shape memoryalloy may be chosen to tailor the finish and start martensitetransformation temperatures (Mf and Ms) and the start and finishaustenite transformation temperatures (As and Af) to the desiredmaterial response.

When fabricating shape memory alloys that exhibit stress inducedmartensite, the material composition may be chosen such that the maximumtemperature that the material exhibits stress-induced martensiteproperties (Md) is greater than Af and the range of temperatures betweenAf and Md covers the range of ambient temperatures the component membersare exposed.

When fabricating shape memory alloys that exhibit austenite propertiesand do not transform to martensite in response to stress, the materialcomposition may be chosen such that both Af and Md are less than therange of temperatures the components are exposed. Of course, Af and Mdmay be chosen at any temperature provided the shape memory alloyexhibits superelastic properties throughout the temperature range towhich they are to be exposed. Nickel titanium having an atomic ratio of51.2% Ni and 48.8% Ti exhibits an Af of approximately −20.degree. C.;nickel titanium having an atomic ratio of 50% Ni to 50% Ti exhibits anAf of approximately 100.degree. C. [Melzer A, Pelton A. SuperelasticShape-Memory Technology of Nitinol in Medicine. Min. Invas. Ther. &Allied Technol. 2000: 9(2) 59-60].

Such superelastic materials are able to withstand strain as high as 10%without plastically deforming. As such, these superelastic materials arecapable of elastically exerting a force upon deflection. Materials otherthan superelastic shape memory alloys may be used as components providedthey can be elastically deformed within the temperature, stress, andstrain parameters required to maximize the elastic restoring forcethereby enabling components of the athletic devices and other devices toexert a directional force in response to an induced deflection. Suchmaterials include other shape memory alloys, spring stainless steel17-7PH, cobalt chromium alloy (Elgiloy), nickel titanium cobalt,platinum tungsten alloys, superelastic and crosslinked polymersincluding those that have been irradiated, annealed, etc.

The superelastic components described herein may be fabricated from atleast one rod, wire, band, tube, sheet, ribbon, other raw materialhaving the desired pattern, cross-sectional profile, and dimensions, ora combination of cross-sections. The superelastic components are cutinto the desired pattern and are thermally formed into the desired3-dimensional geometry. The rod, wire, band, sheet, tube, ribbon, orother raw material may be fabricated by extruding, press-forging, rotaryforging, bar rolling, sheet rolling, cold drawing, cold rolling, usingmultiple cold-working and annealing steps, or otherwise forming into thedesired shape. Then the components may be cut into the desired lengthand/or pattern. Conventional abrasive sawing, waterjet cutting, lasercutting, electron discharge machining (“EDM”) machining, photochemicaletching, or other etching techniques may be employed to cut thecomponents from the raw material.

Ends or any sections of the rod, wire, band, sheet, tubing, ribbon, orother raw material may be attached by laser welding, adhesively bonding,soldering, spot welding, or other attachment means. This encloses thesuperelastic components to provide additional reinforcement, eliminateedges, or other purpose. Multiple rods, wires, bands, sheets, tubing,ribbons, other raw materials, or a combination of these may be bonded toproduce a composite superelastic component and form the skeleton of theathletic device or other devices. When thermally forming thesuperelastic components, the superelastic material(s), previously cutinto the desired pattern and/or length, are stressed into the desiredresting configuration over a mandrel or other forming fixture having thedesired resting shape of the athletic or other device component, and thematerial is heated to between 300 and 650 degrees Celsius for a periodof time, typically between 1 and 30 minutes.

Once the volume of superelastic material reaches the desiredtemperature, the superelastic material is quenched by inserting intochilled water or other fluid, or otherwise allowed to return to ambienttemperature. As such, the superelastic components are fabricated intotheir resting configuration. When extremely small radii of curvature aredesired, multiple thermal forming steps may be utilized to sequentiallybend the rod, wire, band, sheet, tubing, ribbon or other raw materialinto tighter radii of curvature.

When fabricating the superelastic components from tubing, the rawmaterial may have an oval, circular, rectangular, square, trapezoidal,or other cross-sectional geometry capable of being cut into the desiredpattern. After cutting the desired pattern of superelastic components,the components are formed into the desired shape, heated, for example,between 300.degree. C. and 650.degree. C., and allowed to cool in thepreformed geometry to set the shape of the components.

When fabricating the superelastic components from flat sheets of rawmaterial, the raw material may be configured with at least one width, W,and at least one wall thickness, T, throughout the raw material. Assuch, the raw sheet material may have a consistent wall thickness, atapered thickness, or sections of varying thickness. The raw material isthen cut into the desired pattern of superelastic components, andthermally shaped into the desired 3-dimensional geometry. Opposite endsof the thermally formed component member may be secured by using rivets,applying adhesives, welding, soldering, mechanically engaging, utilizinganother bonding means, or a combination of these bonding methods.Opposite ends of the thermally formed components may alternatively befree-floating to permit increased deflection.

Once the components are fabricated and formed into the desiredthree-dimensional geometry, the components may be electropolished,tumbled, sand or bead blasted, ground, or otherwise treated to removeany edges and/or produce a smooth surface.

Holes, slots, notches, other cut-away areas, or regions of groundmaterial may be incorporated in the component design to tailor thestiffness profile of the component. Such holes, slots, notches, or othercut-away areas are also beneficial to increasing the bond strength orreliability when attaching the covering(s), coating(s) or laminate(s) tothe superelastic components. Cutting and treating processes describedabove may be used to fabricate the slots, holes, notches, cut-awayregions, and/or ground regions in the desired pattern to taper thestiffness along the component, focus the stiffness of the components atspecific locations, reinforce regions of the superelastic component, orotherwise customize the stiffness profile of the athletic or otherdevice.

Referring to FIGS. 1 a-f, a racket 6 (e.g., tennis racket, racquetballracket, squash racket, badminton racket, jai lai racket, lacrosseracket, etc.) incorporates superelastic components 2 distributedthroughout the stem or handle, the frame, head, and/or the strings ofthe racket. In general, the racket includes a handle section, a headsection, and a connecting section that is positioned between the handlesection and the head section. One or more of the handle section, thehead section, and the connecting section includes a superelastic metal.The distribution and characteristics of the superelastic component(s)determine the amount of force and the directionality of the force theracket exerts in response to an external force such as a deflection. Thesuperelastic components may be fabricated as a wire, a rod, or ofanother geometry containing at least one width, W, at least one length,L, and at least one thickness, T, and may be configured to produce adesired stiffness and force profile. The width, length, and/or thicknessmay vary throughout the superelastic components to vary the stiffnessprofile and resulting response to movement.

The racket 6 shown in FIG. 1 a incorporates one superelastic component 2a in the stem extending from the handle to the bifurcation; twosuperelastic components 2 b, one on each side of the bifurcation andextending to the head of the racket; one superelastic component 2 cconnecting opposing sides of the bifurcation and acting as a dampener14, and at least one superelastic component 2 d distributed throughoutthe head frame 8 of the racket and used to attach the string(s) 4 to theracket. It should be noted that the entire frame and/or the entire stemmay be fabricated from superelastic components. During manufacturing,the cross-section of each superelastic component may be a circular rod,a rectangular band, a circular or elliptical wire, a square ribbon, adonut shaped tube, a coil, or any other geometry that provides thedesired stiffness to impart the reinforcing and spring forces. It shouldbe noted that the orientation of the superelastic components relative tothe racket depends on the purpose for the racket and helps dictate therestriction of abnormal motion and the spring characteristic of theracket.

The racket embodiment in FIG. 1 a has a frame that contains channels 10through which at least one string mounting component 2 d passes. Themounting component may be in the form of a superelastic wire that ismounted to the head section to form an enclosed opening through which aracket string may pass. The at least one string mounting component 2 dextends throughout the interior surface of the frame 8 passing fromwithin one channel 10, along the interior surface of the frame outsidethe channels, and into an adjacent channel 10, as shown in FIG. 1 c. Theat least one string mounting component 2 d extends throughout theinterior surface of the frame 8 in a sinusoidal, undulating, triangular,or other geometry such that openings between the at least one stringmounting component 2 d, which is made form a superelastic metal, and theframe 8 allow at least one string 4 to pass, as shown in FIG. 1 b. Thesuperelastic component(s) (i.e., string mounting component 2 d)extending throughout the interior surface of the frame 8 terminates at atensioning mechanism or anchoring element 12 designed to secure thissuperelastic component(s). The tensioning mechanism or anchoring element12 may also enable tightening or loosening this superelasticcomponent(s) throughout the frame 8. Multiple tensioning mechanisms 12may be distributed throughout the frame 8 and may be used to manipulatemultiple superelastic components and distribute the force profilethroughout the frame 8. The ability to alter the tension of thesuperelastic component(s) enables changing the amount of elastic recoilfor the strings 4 and tailor the force exerted against a ball or otheritem that the racket is intended to hit. A ratcheting mechanism with along latch may be incorporated in the tensioning mechanism to permitrapid changing of the tension in the superelastic component(s). As suchthe tension of the strings may be selectively changed depending on thedesired hitting response. The mechanisms described above that enablevarying the tension of the strings may alternatively apply to modifyingsuperelastic components in the yoke, neck, or other sections of theframe that can be lengthened or shortened. It should be noted that anynumber of superelastic components may be chosen depending on themanufacturing process, the desired spring constant, and the desiredstiffness profile.

The superelastic components 2 distributed throughout the interiorsurface of the frame 8 are configured to flex toward the center of theracket in response to an external force, such as a ball or other objecthitting the strings 4, and return towards their preformed shape therebyexerting a spring force against the ball or other object. This responsekeeps the ball or other object in contact with the strings 4 of theracket longer thereby improving the directionality or control of hittingthe ball or other object with a racket having such an apparatus, withoutsacrificing power.

As shown in FIG. 1 d, the strings 4 wound throughout the racket frame 8incorporate a central superelastic component core to enhance the effectof hitting a ball or other object. Alternatively, the strings 4themselves may be fabricated from a superelastic material. The stringsmay be tightly wound throughout the head along a single plane locatedalong the mid-region of the head as shown in the embodiments above.Alternatively, sets of strings may be offset in parallel planes orstaggered in front of and behind the mid-region a short distance toincrease the amount of top-spin or slice of the ball. In addition, thesets of strings may contain different tension parameters to enhance thisspinning effect.

The channels 10 incorporated in the frame of the racket mayalternatively be fabricated as a continuous, enclosed cavity extendingfrom the handle through the head of the racket for the purposes ofcontaining a dense fluid or movable solid, such as dense particles. Theability of the fluid or movable solid to migrate throughout the headduring the swinging movement of the racket increases the inertia at themoment of impact. The racket can include internal or external channelsto contain the fluid or solid.

The stiffness and spring characteristics of superelastic components 2 a,2 b distributed throughout the stem and bifurcation of the racketdetermine the force required to deflect the superelastic components andthe amount of elastic recoil. The superelastic components 2 a, 2 blocated in the stem and bifurcation of the racket provide a lightweightspring mechanism used to increase the force exerted against a ball orother object. The superelastic components 2 a, 2 b in the stem andbifurcation of the racket 6 may also be fabricated with such across-sectional profile to tailor the flexion of the stem andbifurcation of the racket along a desired path. For example, thesuperelastic components 2 a, 2 b in the stem and bifurcation of theracket may be fabricated with a rectangular or ovalized cross-section toensure the flexion of the racket extends along the plane perpendicularto the racket head. Alternatively, the superelastic components 2 a, 2 bin the stem and/or bifurcation of the racket may be fabricated in ahelical shape to enable slight rotation of the racket thereby improvingthe ability to create a topspin and/or slice.

As shown in FIG. 1 a, a dampener 14 may connect opposite sides of thebifurcation to reduce vibrations transferred to the stem of the racket.This helps prevent tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, tendonitis, or otherinjury resulting from frequent stressing of the elbow, wrist, or otherjoint. The dampener 14 in this embodiment consists of a superelasticcomponent 2 wound into a helical coil and attached to each end of thebifurcation. The pitch of the superelastic coil may be chosen to matchthe resonance frequency of the vibrations propagating from the rackethead. The superelastic coil dampener thereby counters the vibrations atthe racket head to prevent the vibrations from reaching the handle ofthe racket. The dampener 14 may alternatively be fabricated from tubestock cut into the desired coil profile that matches the desiredresonance frequency. Such dampeners may alternatively be attached to theinterior surface of the racket head at the top or bottom. Alternatively,the racket head may incorporate such dampeners inside sections of theframe 8, especially at the bottom or top. Such dampener mayalternatively be fabricated in the stem of the racket or emanating fromthe handle of the racket.

Referring specifically to FIG. 1 e, the handle of the racket may includea superelastic section 15 a that is positioned between, for example,graphite, metal, polymer, such as Kevlar or another high strengthpolymer, composite, or other conventional racket material. The section15 a, provides dampening, stiffness, and/or spring characteristics. Thesection 15 a includes portions for mounting to the handle. For example,the section 15 a can include reduced diameter portions around which thehandle is fabricated. The section 15 a also may include extensions thatextend longitudinally and around which the handle may be fabricated. Theextensions can be in the form of a coil or a straight rod or finger. Theextensions may have a roughened surface, three-dimensional surface,openings, or channels that improve the bonding of the handle to thesection 15 a.

Referring to FIG. 1 f, the head of the racket may include a superelasticsection 15 b around at least a portion of the circumference of the head.The superelastic section 15 b can be of any cross-sectional shape, suchas a tubular, square, rod, star, or other cross-sectional shape. Thesection 15 b may be encased in a second material, such as graphite,aluminum, a polymer composite, of other conventional racket material.The section 15 b may have a hollow interior that may be filled with amaterial or may be left open to reduce or minimize the weight of theracket.

FIGS. 2 a and 2 b show swim fins 16 that contain superelasticcomponents. These components may be removable and replaceable withcomponents of different flexibility and stiffness to vary theperformance characteristics of the swim fins. The swim fins mayincorporate at least one superelastic component 18 embedded in at leastone covering 20. The covering 20 may be fabricated from a rubber,urethane, silicone, or other polymer formed into the desired shape, asshown. The superelastic components 18 illustrated in FIGS. 2 a and 2 bare preferably fabricated with a rectangular or ovalized cross-sectionand are distributed throughout the swim fins 16 to tailor the springforce such that the swim fins elastically return towards their preformedshape in response to a deflection. This increases and optimizes theforce exerted by the fins against surrounding water to improve theefficiency and velocity when swimming with fins. The stiffness of thesuperelastic components 18 may be tapered from the proximal region ofthe fins, located at front end of the boot, at the heal of the fin, orany location relative to the boot, and extend to the distal end of thefins. This may be accomplished by decreasing the width or wall thicknessof the superelastic components as they extend from the boot distally, orby distributing individual superelastic components such that thestiffness decreases distally, as shown in FIG. 2 a. This aids inmatching the desired force response of the fins to the fluid mechanicsof propelling a body through water. Superelastic components may also beincorporated in hand fins or other devices designed to displace a volumeof water or other liquid in an efficient manner.

The superelastic components previously described for the racket and swimfins may additionally be modified accordingly for other athletic devicesor other devices. For example, FIGS. 3 a, 3 b, and 3 g-3 n show variousconfigurations of a ski 22 (e.g., water ski, snow ski, ski mobile, snowvehicle, sled, or any other type of ski or device that uses skis orrunners) that incorporates at least one superelastic component 18 withina housing 22 that is fabricated from fiberglass, wood, acrylonitrilebutadiene styrene (ABS), Kevlar, carbon, carbon fiber, sinteredpolyethylene material (P-TEX), or other material that is suitable for aski. FIGS. 3 c and 3 d show boards 30 (snowboards 24, skateboards 26,surfboards 28, or other athletic board) that incorporates at least onesuperelastic component 18 within a housing 22 that is fabricated fromfiberglass, wood, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), Kevlar, otherlaminate, carbon, carbon fiber, sintered polyethylene material (P-TEX),or other material that is suitable for a board. The housing 22 may befabricated such that the superelastic component 18 is removable andreplaceable with a different superelastic component 18 having adifferent stiffness or spring characteristic. Alternatively, the skis 22or boards (24 or 26 or 28) may be completely fabricated from one or moresuperelastic components 18 oriented and fabricated to completely definethe housing 22. The superelastic components generally cause more of theski or board base to contact the surface, such as the snow, at any onetime to provide better control and maneuvering abilities.

The superelastic component(s) 18 in the skis or boards may bedistributed throughout the housing 22 to tailor the stiffness andflexion profile to the desired activity. For example, as shown in FIG. 3c, the superelastic components 18 may be distributed throughout theboard (24, 26, or 28) such that one or both sides of the board differ instiffness or elastic recoil from the middle of the board, and/or thefront, middle, and rear of the board differ in stiffness or elasticrecoil. As shown in FIG. 3 e, individual superelastic components may beoriented on opposite sides of the ski 22, or board (24, 26, or 28),which further enables changing the stiffness and elastic recoildistribution. In addition or alternatively, the stiffness profile orelastic recoil characteristics may be distributed throughout individualsuperelastic components by changing the width or wall thickness, orcutting slots or other geometrical openings that increase flexibilitythroughout the superelastic component.

The superelastic components 18 also direct the motion of the skis 22 orboards (24, 26, or 28) depending on the activity. This is accomplishedby tailoring the stiffness profile of the ski or board to the desiredactivity. For example, the superelastic components 18 may be fabricatedand distributed to ensure that the ski 22 or board (24 or 26) remains incontact with the ground or other surface for the maximum amount of time.This is accomplished by tailoring the spring constant of thesuperelastic components 18 to dampen the impact of hitting bumps orother irregularities that flex the ski or board and otherwise wouldcause the ski or board to bounce away from the ground or other surface.Maximizing contact between the ski or board and the ground or othersurface improves control and mobility of the ski or board by ensuringthat the motion imparted by the user is transmitted to the ground orother surface.

Another improvement in the performance of skis or boards is to enhancethe ability to control the slalom or turning. As the user begins tolean, one side of the skis or board flexes into a curve aiding the userin slaloming or turning. The amount of flexion the ski or board allows,and the resulting curvature, depends on the stiffness profile of theskis or board. Therefore, creating a flexible mid-section enablesproducing more curvature in the skis or board in response to a flexion,thereby producing a tighter turning radius and more control of suchmotion by the user. The tensile strength and the flex characteristics ofthe superelastic components enable generating tighter radii of curvaturewith the skis or board without plastically deforming or causing afailure of the device.

Referring specifically to FIG. 3 g, the ski 22 may include asuperelastic component 18 g in the form of a dual runner. Each runnerextends from a central mounting region and has a curvature away from theski. As a skier turns, one of the superelastic runners will flatten out,giving more surface area for that part of the ski during the turn. Bytailoring the stiffness and flexibility, the runners can be configuredto return to their curvature after the turn when the skier is goingstraight. The component 18 g may be removably mounted to the ski. Forexample, the upper surface of the component 18 g may have one or moremounting portion that are used to mount the component to the ski, using,for example, a bolt, binder, or other mounting means.

A ski boot or other type of boot can incorporate a superelasticcomponent that is used to tailor the flexibility of the boot. Thesuperelastic component, can be, for example, an L-shaped insert that isremovably placed in the back of the boot and the bottom of the boot. Theinsert can be removed and replaced with an insert of a differentstiffness if desired. The insert provides flexibility and may beannealed to restrict movement beyond set limits.

Referring to FIG. 3 h, the ski 22 may include a superelastic component18 h in the form of a single runner that has a concave orientation withrespect to the surface on which it rides. The component 18 h has a pairof outer edges that can flex or extend in the direction toward the ski.Thus, when turning, the edge on the radius of the turn would be forcedtoward the ski, giving more area for the turn. The opposite edge couldbe configured to ride along the skiing surface or be of a curvature suchthat it is above the surface during sharp turns and/or close to thesurface during gentle turns. The superelastic component 18 h may bemounted in a manner similar to that of component 18 g, above.

Referring to FIGS. 3 i-3 k, the ski 22 may include one or moresuperelastic components 18 i that function as guides. The superelasticguides 18 i may be configured to provide flexion of a part of the ski,such as the front of the ski. The front of the ski can be made thinnerand more flexible and the superelastic guides 18 i function to reinforcethe front of the ski. In this manner, the front of the ski will absorbshock and dampen vibrations. Although illustrated in FIGS. 3 i-3 k asbeing on the lower surface of the ski 22, the guides can be configuredto be one or more rods 3 j within the interior of the ski or one or morerods 3 k on the upper surface of the ski. The guides 18 i also can beconfigured to be parallel, as shown, or to radiate away from a centralpoint, in a manner similar to fingers from a hand.

Referring to FIG. 3 l, the ski 22 can be configured entirely orpartially of a superelastic metal and have flexible edges 18 i thatextend down and/or outwardly from the ski to provide an edge surface forturning. The center of the ski will be flexible and tend to flatten outwhen a skier is using the ski 22. The ski 22 will advantageously dampenvibrations and absorb shock. Moreover, the stiffness and flexibility ofthe ski can be tailored with the superelastic metal to provide optimalskiing characteristics.

Referring to FIGS. 3 m-3 o, the ski 22 can be configured to haveflexible edges 18 m that flatten out when force is applied to them, suchas when, for example, the skier is turning. The edges 18 m can becontinuous along the length of the ski, positioned at the front and/orrear of the ski but not in the middle section, or only in the middlesection of the ski. The edges 18 m can be separated mounted or can beparts of a base that is mounted to the ski.

The bindings or binding attachment mechanisms and/or accessories for theskis or boards above may also incorporate superelastic components or befabricated from superelastic materials. For example, referring to FIGS.3 p-3 r, a ski pole 31 can be fabricated entirely or in part fromsuperelastic metals. Components that can be made from a superelasticmetal include the rod 31 a, the spike 31 b, and the ring 31 c. Becausethe superelastic metal can be made to be strong, it can have a hollowcross-section, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 q and 3 r. As illustrated inFIG. 3 r, the cross-sectional shape of the rod 31 a can be oval shaped,although any shape can be used. By fabricated parts or all of the skipole 31 from superelastic metals, the pole will flex but not plasticallydeform, which ruins conventional ski poles. Moreover, the superelasticmetal absorbs shocks and dampens vibrations, in particular from usingthe pole on icy snow. Referring also to FIG. 3 s, the ski pole 31 can befabricated from superelastic metal and have an angled connection 31 dformed between an upper portion 31 e and a lower portion 31 f of the skipole. The angled connection 31 d will flex and provide a spring forcewhen slightly released. The angled connection 31 d also will absorbshock and dampen vibrations. These features will be advantageous in icysnow because they will also increase the likelihood that the spike 31 bwill grab or catch the ice and then sink into the ice to provide firmmaneuvering.

FIGS. 4 a and 4 b show a toothbrush 32 that contains a superelasticcomponent 18 at the flex point 42 between the head 34 of the toothbrush32 and the shaft 33. This flex point ensures the head 34 of thetoothbrush, thus the bristles of the toothbrush remains in intimatecontact with the teeth while brushing and applies the desired amount offorce against the teeth. The use of superelastic materials in thiscapacity ensures the toothbrush retains the desired amount of springforce between the head 34 and the teeth, and that the flex point 42 doesnot plastically deform in response to frequent and multiple flexions.The stiffness of the flex point may be tailored to the desired forceresponse by optimizing the cross-sectional geometry, the width, and thewall thickness of the superelastic component 18. The stiffness of theflex point may also prevent damage to the teeth and gums by deflectingabove a predetermined force limit to ensure excess force is not appliedagainst the teeth or gums with the toothbrush.

FIGS. 5 a and 5 b show a razor 36 that incorporates a superelasticcomponent 18 at the flex point 42 between the head 38 of the razor andthe handle 37. This flex point ensures that the head 38 of the razor,and thus the blade 40 of the razor, remains in intimate contact with theskin while shaving and applies the desired amount of force against theskin. The use of superelastic materials in this capacity ensures therazor retains the desired amount of spring force between the cuttinghead 38 and the skin, and that the flex point 42 does not plasticallydeform in response to frequent and multiple flexions. The stiffness ofthe flex point may be tailored to the desired force response byoptimizing the cross-sectional geometry, the width, and the wallthickness of the superelastic component 18. The superelastic component18 flex point 42 may be tailored with the optimal spring constant toensure the cutting head 38, thus the blade 40, remains in intimatecontact with and at the optimal angle relative to the skin despiteirregularities in the contours of the face, or other body region.

FIGS. 6 a to 6 c show an archery bow 44 that incorporates superelasticcomponents 2 or 18. The archery bow frame 48 contains at least onesuperelastic component 18 configured to permit flexing in response to anexternal force, mainly pulling on the string 46, thereby causing theframe to deflect into a tighter radius of curvature, and return towardstheir preformed shape once the external force is reduced or removed. Thesuperelastic components 18 may be contained within a housing of thearchery bow frame 48, as shown in FIG. 6 c, or fabricated as the housingof the archery bow 44. The stiffness and spring force distribution ofthe at least one superelastic component may be tailored to the desiredspring force by tapering the width, wall thickness, or otherwisechanging the cross-section throughout the length of the at least onesuperelastic component. The string 46 of the archery bow 44 may alsoincorporate a superelastic component 2 as a central core or the stringitself. The string 46 is attached to the archery bow frame 48 withrivets 47 or other attachment means configured to anchor the ends of thestring 46 to opposite ends of the archery bow frame 48.

Superelastic components 18 may be used in the shafts of other athleticequipment to improve the spring response of the shaft upon deflection.FIG. 7 a shows a boat oar 52 or canoe paddle that incorporates at leastone superelastic component 18 in the shaft. FIG. 7 b shows a baseballbat 54 containing at least one superelastic component 18 in the shaft.This superelastic component may alternatively be fabricated to produce adampening response as discussed for the racket above. Alternatively, thebaseball bat may contain a dense fluid or moveable solid inside achannel to increase the inertia at impact as discussed with the racketabove. The baseball bat can include internal or external channels tocontain the fluid or solid. FIG. 7 c shows a hockey stick thatincorporates at least one superelastic component 18 in the shaft and atleast one superelastic component 18 in the flex point between the headand the shaft. These athletic devices are intended to exert a forceagainst an object (e.g., water, a ball, a puck, etc.). By incorporatingsuperelastic components 18 in the shafts of such devices, the maximumforce exerted upon the object is increased. Flexion of such deviceswhile swinging or other motion induces an elastic recoil that increasesthe force exerted upon the object. Similarly, superelastic componentsmay be incorporated in fishing poles, vaulting poles, boat masts, orother device that produces a spring force in response to a deflection.

FIGS. 8 a to 8 g show a golf club 58 fabricated with superelasticcomponents 2 and 18 intended to enhance the performance of the golfclub. FIG. 8 a shows a golf club that incorporates at least onesuperelastic component 2 or 18 in the shaft 60 and at least onesuperelastic component 2 or 18 in the flex point between the head 62 andthe shaft 60. FIGS. 8 c and 8 d show a shaft 60 fabricated from asuperelastic material and a shaft 60 that incorporates an innersuperelastic component 50. Golf clubs are intended to exert a forceagainst a ball to propel the golf ball a desired distance. Byincorporating superelastic components 2 or 18 in the shafts 60 of golfclubs, the force exerted upon the object may be tailored to the specificgolf club purpose. For example, a driver requires the maximum forceapplied to a golf ball and the force required progressively decreases inknown increments as the golf club type changes from the lower irons tothe wedges. Flexion of golf clubs that incorporate superelasticcomponents 2 or 18 in the shafts or region between the head and shaftwhile swinging or other motion induces an elastic recoil that determinesthe force exerted upon the object. This spring force may be specified bythe cross-sectional geometry, width, and wall thickness of thesuperelastic components.

The region between the head 62 and the shaft 60 of the golf club may beconfigured as a flex point depending on the configuration of thesuperelastic components in this region. As shown in FIGS. 8 e to 8 g,the flex point may be fabricated from a superelastic material having thedesired diameter and wall thickness profile throughout the length, witha superelastic component 2 wound in a coil or otherwise fabricated witha torque characteristic and inserted inside the shaft 60, or with theshaft 60 of the golf club fabricated from a superelastic material woundin a helical coil, or cut in a helical or other pattern. Such flexpoints are designed to increase the force exerted by the golf club onthe ball by inducing an elastic recoil in response to a swinging motionthat produces bending and/or rotation of the head at the flex point. Inaddition, such flex points may be tailored to incorporate a dampeningeffect by matching the resonance frequency of vibrations resulting fromhitting a ball with the club head.

As shown in FIG. 8 b, the head 62 may incorporate a superelasticcomponent 18 along the contact surface of the head. The head may containsuperelastic components 2 coiled or otherwise formed as springmechanisms and attached to the club head 62 housing 64 between thecontact surface of the head and the opposite surface. These superelasticcomponents 2 provide the desired spring characteristic depending on theclub type to ensure a consistent distance is obtained when hitting aball with such golf clubs and correct for mis-hits. The stiffness andelastic recoil profile may be distributed throughout the club head 62 tobetter ensure consistency in hitting distance and direction by ensuringthe same spring force is applied upon contact with the ball throughoutthe club head. The golf club can have an inner channel that, similarlyto the racket describe above, can contain a dense fluid or moveablesolid that can be used to increase the inertia during the swing. Thegolf club can include internal or external channels to contain the fluidor solid.

Superelastic components may also be incorporated in the core or internalliner of golf balls, baseball balls, or other balls by winding wires,flat sheets, or other raw material geometries fabricated fromsuperelastic components into a ball and encompassing the superelasticcomponents in a covering. The benefit of such a ball is its improvedresponse to deflection.

FIGS. 9 a and 9 b show a racing car that contains superelasticcomponents in specific components configured to flex. It should be notedthat such devices are not limited to racing cars but are applicable tonumerous automobiles, motorcycles, or other motorized equipment. The car66 in FIGS. 9 a and 9 b incorporates suspension components andaerodynamic components fabricated from superelastic materials orincorporating superelastic components. For example, car 66 contains twowishbone suspensions 71 and 72, two rear suspensions 73 and 74, apushrod or other suspension, and/or shocks 78 (not shown). Thesesuspensions 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, and 78 may be fabricated fromsuperelastic materials or contain superelastic components within thecomponent housing. As such, the superelastic suspension components biasthe wheels 67 towards the ground or other surface by applying a desiredspring force. This insures the wheel remains in contact with the groundor other surface continuously, and reduces the amount of time the wheelslose contact with the road or other surface.

The use of superelastic components in suspensions ensures contactbetween the wheels and the road when rolling over bumps or otherirregularities in the road, when accelerating from a stop or on a wetroad, when decelerating on a wet road, or when driving in icyconditions. The increased contact between the wheels and the roadimproves control of the car, especially when turning or driving alongcurves, increases velocity of the car, and decreases the time anddistance to come to a complete stop.

Superelastic materials may also be used to improve the performance ofaerodynamic components of the car. For example, the front wing 68, rearwing 69, other wings, sections of wings, the trailing edge of wings,wing connection links 70, or other aerodynamic aids may be fabricatedfrom superelastic materials or incorporate superelastic components inthe part. In this manner, as described in more detail below, thetrailing edge of a wing or winglet may be deflected while the mainportion of the wing remains undeflected to improve straight-line speed.Then, at a slower speed, for example, going around a corner, thetrailing edge is undeflected or returns to its undeflected position toprovide better down force.

Alternatively the attachment means of the front wing, rear wing, rearwing connection link, or other part may be fabricated from asuperelastic component to tailor the flex point characteristics at theattachment location to the desired response. This helps maintain thestability of the aerodynamic parts when exposed to various forces.Incorporating a spring characteristic in the wings improves the responseof the wings to ensure the wings return to its resting configurationwhen the external force causing the deflection is reduced. Highperformance cars or race cars require a significant amount of down forcewhile going around curves; however, this down force hindersstraight-line speed. As such superelastic components enable flexion ofthe wings into a less restrictive position at high speeds but quicklyreturns to the resting configuration which applies a downward force toenhance control at lower speeds, commonly associated with driving aroundcurves. The spring characteristic of the superelastic components may betailored to specify the transition between the high-speed orientationand the downward force position depending on the speeds the carscommonly see these conditions.

In addition, the barge boards 79 and/or the attachment means for thebarge boards may be fabricated from superelastic materials or containsuperelastic components. They also can be used to fabricate aerodynamiccomponents that could be made, partially or completely, fromsuperelastic materials and include, for example, the Gurney Strip,wicker bill, or Handford Device, end plates, diffusers, intake andexhaust areas, springs, winglets, etc. The flex points of the rear viewmirrors 77 or the rear view mirrors themselves may also containsuperelastic components to prevent plastic deformation when exposed tofrequent deflections. Surface modifications could include oval, dimple,slot, hole, groove, combination or other indentations, protrusions orthrough holes, in a longitudinal, axial, cross, combination or otherconsistent or random pattern. The superelastic materials also can beused to modify cars, aircraft, and other aerodynamic surfaces tomanipulate the airflow over these surfaces.

Cars also can use superelastic materials (including in sheet form) onthe bodies of cars (especially high performance race cars) to improveprojectile penetration resistance, because the material is light andstrong. This application could significantly increase the protection ofthe driver's legs in cars such as Formula One and Indy cars.Superelastic/shape memory alloys and polymers also could be used in thesidewall, tread, and/or other areas or regions on automobile tires,motorcycle tires, bicycle tires, or other types of tires or wheels. Thematerial could increase the strength (including limiting sidewall flex)and puncture resistance of the tire or wheel. The superelastic/shapememory material could be in the form of a sheet, band, wire (or wires),rod, braid, winding, laminate, combination of these, or any othersimilar configuration.

FIG. 10 shows a bicycle 76 fabricated with superelastic components. Thesuperelastic components may be incorporated as frame inserts 84 designedto tailor the stiffness of the frame and withstand frequent flexions ofthe frame 82. The superelastic components may be incorporated as shocks78 or springs to ensure intimate contact between the wheels of thebicycle and the road or other surface. The superelastic component mayalso be used as a shock 78 or spring connecting the bicycle seat to theframe 82. Superelastic components may also be used as spokes 80 in thewheels, or as the wheels themselves.

Referring to FIG. 10 b, the front forks 77 a beneficially can be madepartially or entirely from a superelastic metal. The forks absorb shocksand vibrations while riding. Thus, fabricating the forks from a materialthat can absorb shocks and dampen vibrations will provide a smoother andmore comfortable ride. The stem 77 b and crown 77 c may be made of aconventional alloy or a lightweight superelastic alloy. However, theindividual forks 77 d can provide the majority of shock absorbing andvibration dampening and are beneficially made from a lightweightsuperelastic alloy to improve the comfort of the ride.

Referring to FIGS. 10 c and 10 d, an aerobar 79 a can be made of asuperelastic metal and/or a polymer and epoxy composite. An aerobar 79 aincludes an elbow rest 79 b, an arm rest and hand grip 79 c, and amounting section 79 d. By fabricating one or more of the elbow rest 79b, the arm rest and hand grip 79 c, and the mounting section 79 d from asuperelastic metal, the superelastic component(s) of the aerobar willabsorb shock and dampen vibrations, making the ride more comfortable forthe rider. The entire arm rest and hand grip 79 c, or a portion of it,can be made from a polymer, such as Kevlar, and epoxy composite forweight reduction and one or more of the remaining components of theaerobar may be made from a superelastic metal to provide beneficialshock absorbing and vibration dampening.

FIG. 11 shows a rollerblade 86 that incorporates superelastic componentsthat connect the wheels 87 to the boot and interconnect the wheels.Shocks 88 or springs, and interconnects 90 fabricated from superelasticmaterials distribute the spring force along the boot to account forirregularities individual wheels 87 encounter, and maximize the contactbetween the wheels and the ground or other surface. Such superelasticshocks 88 and interconnects 90 may also be used in roller skates, skateboards, scooters, hockey skates, figure skates, or other athletic deviceintended to roll.

Alternatively, the component structures described above may be used inother athletic or other devices that inherently require flex points,shafts that flex upon swinging or other motion, or contact surfaces thatdetermine the amount of force applied to an object. The ability tothermally shape the superelastic components to any form enablescustomizing the superelastic components to the athletic or other device.In addition, these component member structures may be used in athleticor other devices that require a continuous force to be exerted, or forcebiased in a predetermined direction.

FIG. 12 shows a backpack 92 that contains superelastic componentsdistributed throughout the frame 94. The superelastic components areencompassed in a covering 98 that defines the backpack 92. Pocket flaps96 may also be formed in the backpack 92. Superelastic components enableflexion of the backpack in response to an external force and return ofthe backpack to its original shape when the external force is removed.The superelastic components are extremely light in weight yet providesubstantial tensile strength. Similarly, superelastic components may beincorporated in the frame of kites, tents, or other such device.

Superelastic components may alternatively be incorporated in exerciseequipment associated with applying a desired resistance in response todeflecting a member. In general, the superelastic component may providea dynamic response to deflection that increase the resistance to bendingwith increased bending of the exercise equipment member that includes adeflectable superelastic component. For example, several exercisedevices apply a resistance upon deflecting a beam, or a bow a desireddistance. By fabricating the beam from superelastic materials orincorporating superelastic components in the beam, the resistanceprovided to the user may be better tailored to the optimal force vs.distance profile to improve the efficiency and effects of the exercise.The stress-induced martensite characteristics of superelastic materialsenable varying the resistance in a predetermined profile or maintainingconstant resistance over a substantially greater distance therebyproducing any desired force response. Conventional exercise equipmentexerts relatively constant resistance over a short distance and theresistance rapidly decreases past this point. Superelastic componentsalso withstand numerous and frequent deflections without plasticallydeforming or failing thereby making them ideal for such exerciseequipment.

The properties of the superelastic component members or structuresdescribed above may be varied to address applications in which thestiffness or elasticity needs to be varied accordingly. The compositionof the superelastic material may be chosen to select the temperaturerange in which the component members or structures exhibitstress-induced martensite. As such, the amount of austenite, andstress-induced martensite characteristics throughout a specifictemperature range may be chosen to specify the degree of deflection andamount of force exerted by the superelastic component member oncedeflected. For example, the superelastic properties of the material maybe chosen so as exercise (or other activity) increases, the associatedtemperature increase induces a change in the superelastic properties ofthe superelastic component member or structure to provide, for example,increased rigidity and/or elasticity of the material.

Numerous modifications and/or additions to the above-describedembodiments and implementations are readily apparent to one skilled inthe art. It is intended that the scope of the present embodiments andimplementations extend to all such modifications and/or additions andthat the scope of the present embodiments and implementations is limitedsolely by the claims. For example, the techniques and principlesdescribed above can be applied to shoes by using a flat sheet or coilconfiguration such that the shoe has the ability to flex (slide) onitself. In addition, motion or deflection can be used to depresspiezoelectric film, generating a voltage to heat an element on a shoespring, and cause a phase shift in the defection characteristics. Such asystem also can be adapted to be used as an internal heater for skibases, ski boots, or other type boots used in cold weather, without theuse of a DC or other power source.

They also can be applied to a support/spring for inclusion in nosestrips to keep nostrils open to prevent or reduce snoring or as a sportsdevice to improve or increase air flow into the lungs, especially duringathletic activities, by keeping the nasal passages or nostrils open. Thesuperelastic materials also can be sandwiched by or between many othermaterials such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, or other similar materialsas a composite, or to provide a “living hinge” section between connectedmembers. They also may be used as an umbrella frame and/or handle toincrease the longevity of an umbrella by reducing the likelihood ofdamage to the umbrella. They also may be used in exercise equipment,such as resistive motion type equipment, for hand, elbow, knee, etc.,exercises.

The superelastic metals can be applied as a strain relief for anelectrical cable or wire or connectable tube at the end where the cable,wire, or tube is connected to a second component, such as an electricalextension cord, stereo jack, fluid tube, vacuum hose, pneumatic hose,air compressor, telephone recharger, etc. The strain relief can be onthe inside, outside, or combination, of the cable, wire, hose, or tube.The superelastic/shape memory strain relief may be in the form of acoil, a mandril, tube, one or more rods, a wire, a wrap, a braidedsection, a hollow tube, or any combination of one or more of theseforms. It also may be used with a shrink tube or injected molded strainrelief. The strain relief can be added at the time of manufacture,during, for example, extrusion or injection molding, or later in thefield or location of use. For example, it can be inserted into or aroundthe end of the termination of the tube. The tube may have a separatechannel to receive the strain relief.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown anddescribed herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art thatsuch embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerousvariations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilledin the art without departing from the invention. It should be understoodthat various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention describedherein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended thatthe following claims define the scope of the invention and that methodsand structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents becovered thereby.

What is claimed is:
 1. An aerodynamic component for a motorized vehiclecomprising: a deflectable wing formed from a superelastic material,wherein at least a portion of the deflectable wing is moved to adeflected position upon application of a threshold force when travelingat a predetermined straight-line speed, and returning to an undeflectedposition upon reduction of the threshold force when traveling below thepredetermined straight-line speed.
 2. The component of claim 1 whereinthe deflectable wing returns to a resting undeflected configuration whenexternal forces causing deflection are removed.
 3. A motorized vehicleair deflector for providing variable aerodynamic performance of thevehicle at different speeds, said deflector comprising: a connectionlink fabricated from a superelastic material to tailor its flex pointcharacteristics to a desired response in order to maintain theaerodynamic stability of the deflector when exposed to changing externalforces.
 4. The deflector of claim 3 wherein the connection link enablesflexion of the deflector into a less restrictive position at high speedsand returns to a resting configuration which applies a downward force toenhance control at lower speeds.
 5. An aerodynamic vehicle comprising: adeflectable wing formed from a superelastic material, wherein thedeflectable wing is formed with a trailing edge, wherein the trailingedge is positioned in a first position to generate a first amount ofdownforce when the vehicle is traveling above a selected corneringspeed, and wherein the trailing edge is positioned in a second positionto generate a second amount of downforce when the vehicle is travelingat or below the selected cornering speed, wherein the second positiongenerates a greater amount of downforce than the first position of thetrailing edge to provide improved vehicle handling around curves.
 6. Thevehicle of claim 5 further comprising a wing connection link to connectthe deflectable wing to the vehicle.
 7. The vehicle of claim 5 whereinthe vehicle includes a pair of front wings and a pair of rear wings.